Each of our children are individuals with their own unique learning style. We are so fortunate to live in a community with such a wide array of different types of schools.
When it comes to learning, all the rearch shows that "one size does not fit all." Whether you have a kindergartner just starting out, or you have an older child who seems very discontent in his/her current academic setting, I recommend that you explore all of your options when looking at a school.
Here are some good questions to ask:
1. What is your child's learning style? Does he or she have a traditional school learning style or does he/she require movement and socialization?
2. What type of personality traits does she/he have? Do they require quite a bit of structure, or do they thrive when they can really be heard?
3. What atmosphere does your child learn best in?
4. What types of teacher personalities will best match your child's personality style?
On Feb. 9,2010 the Argus Leader published an article about the variety of schools offered in Sioux Falls. I highly recommend that if your child is unhappy in his/her current setting, that you explore these. Always visit a school first and make sure that it intuitively feels right. Ask many questions. Interview other students and families who already attend the school.
While there is no perfect school, parents need to think about their individual child when choosing one.